Nordic Walking to Make Its Marathon Debut

This October, I'll be sharing the Portland Marathon route with nordic walkers - those who use nordic walking poles. LEKI USA is sponsoring the new Nordic Walking category for the Portland Marathon, a first for marathons in the USA. "Our company is honored to partner with a high-profile event like the Portland Marathon, which attracts a high concentration of dedicated walkers," said LEKI USA vice president Greg Wozer in a press release. "This is the perfect venue to introduce Nordic Walking to a large number of people." In 2004, 28% of 8,530 Portland Marathon finishers were walkers (including yours truly).
Nordic walking poles help walkers burn more calories per mile, give their upper bodies a workout while walking, and reduce strain on the hips, knees and ankles. Nordic walking is very popular in Europe and pole manufacturers naturally would love to spread that success to the USA and Canada.
Nordic Walking: Step by Step
Top Picks for Fitness Walking Poles
The Portland Marathon: Training and Walking

One Piece Nordic Walking Poles vs. Adjustable Poles
Pete Edwards of Skiwalking.com writes, "From my experience as the USA's most active Ski Walking/Nordic Walking coach, I have found that the best poles for most Americans are one piece poles - NOT adjustable poles. The Finns never envisioned adjustable poles for anything but traveling (stashing in a suitcase or backpack) - they use simple one piece designs that are durable and last. Please note that most of the folks in my clinics that already have adjustable poles don't like them - one lady super-glued her poles before my clinic because they kept slipping."
Before You Buy Fitness Walking Poles